Norway Rat Prevention

Norway rats are often drawn to piles of wood, so homeowners
should keep firewood stored well away from the structure and remove
debris piles to reduce nesting spots. For proper Norway rat
control, seal any holes on the outside of the home with silicone
caulk. Eliminate sources of moisture, especially in crawl spaces
and basements, to get rid of Norway rats. It’s also important to
occasionally inspect the home for signs of a Norway rat
infestation, including rodent droppings, gnaw marks, damaged goods
and greasy rub marks caused by their oily fur.

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Norway rats are believed to be of Asian origin, but are now
found throughout the world. These rats can cause damage to
properties and structures through their gnawing. Norway rats have
smaller eyes and ears and shorter tails.

Habits

Norway rats are primarily nocturnal and often enter a home in
the fall when outside food sources become scarce. These rats are
known to gnaw through almost anything – including plastic or lead
pipes – to obtain food or water. Norway rats are social rodents and
build burrows close to one another.

Habitat

Outdoors, Norway rats live in fields, farmlands and in
structures. These rats frequently burrow in soil near riverbanks,
in garbage and woodpiles, and under concrete slabs. Indoors, Norway
rats often nest in basements, piles of debris or undisturbed
materials. Rodents can gain entry to a home through a hole the size
of a quarter.

Threats

Norway rats can cause damage to structures through their gnawing
and eating. These rats are also vectors of diseases including
plague, jaundice, rat-bite fever, cowpox virus, trichinosis and
salmonellosis. In addition, Norway rats can contaminate food and
introduce fleas into a home.